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Advice for Reducing Energy Consumption in Rental Properties 

Besides the monthly rent, renters generally need to budget another recurring sum for their utilities. Despite not having direct control over the technicalities of the energy grid used in rental properties, you don’t have to accept sky-high energy bills as a fact of life. You have more control over your energy consumption than you might think.  

In this article, we’ll explore just how you can control your energy usage in practical, effective ways while maintaining the clauses in your lease agreement and your relationship with the landlord.

Understanding Your Energy Usage 

Before we take a look at the specific solutions you can implement, you need to understand where your energy dollars are actually going. According to the Department of Energy’s latest statistics, the average American household spends over $2,200 annually on energy bills, with roughly half of that going to heating and cooling costs. As a renter, you might feel that many aspects of your apartment’s energy efficiency are beyond your control, but knowledge is the first step toward improvement. You cannot control what you don’t know.  

Start by conducting your own basic energy audit. You can gather valuable insights by examining your living space systematically, even though you won’t get as much info as you would from a professional auditor. Start by reviewing your energy bills from the past 12 months. Look for patterns in usage and costs and pay particular attention to seasonal variations. Many utility companies now provide online tools that break down your consumption by time of day and compare it to similar households in your area. 

Consider investing in a simple energy monitoring device that plugs into your electrical outlets. These affordable tools can help you identify which appliances are energy hogs and how much phantom power your electronics consume when you’re not using them but you’re still keeping them plugged in. Some local libraries even loan out these devices, so it’s a cost-free option. 

Incorporating No-Cost Energy Saving Methods 

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You don’t need to spend a dime to start saving energy today. Small changes in your daily habits can lead to considerable reductions in your energy consumption. Your thermostat is your best friend in the battle against high energy bills. During winter months, try setting your thermostat to 68°F (20°C) when you’re awake and at home, and lowering it by 7-10 degrees while you’re sleeping or away. In summer, aim for 78°F (26°C) when you’re home and active. Each degree of adjustment can impact your heating and cooling costs by about 2%. 

Natural light is a free resource that’s often underutilized. Make a habit of opening blinds and curtains during winter days to let in warming sunlight and closing them during summer days to keep out heat. During moderate weather, turn off your HVAC system entirely and use windows for ventilation. 

The way you use your appliances can also impact your energy consumption. Run your dishwasher and washing machine only when you have full loads and use cold water for laundry whenever possible. Modern detergents are designed to work effectively in cold water, and heating water accounts for a substantial portion of your energy usage. 

Implementing Low-Cost Improvements 

While some energy-saving measures require an initial investment, many affordable options can pay for themselves quickly through reduced utility bills. Most of these are also generally approved by landlord, but make sure to check before implementing them. 

LEDs might be the most straightforward upgrade you can make. LED bulbs cost more upfront than traditional incandescent bulbs, but they use about 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer, so in the long run, you’re better off using these. Start by replacing the bulbs in your most frequently used fixtures and then gradually replace others as your budget allows. 

Working with Your Landlord 

Your relationship with your landlord can be a powerful tool in achieving greater energy efficiency. While some renters hesitate to approach their landlords about property improvements, many property owners are actually interested in energy-saving upgrades that can increase their property’s value and attract energy-conscious tenants. 

When approaching your landlord, come prepared with a well-researched proposal. Focus on the mutual benefits: while you’ll save on monthly bills, they’ll benefit from improved property value and reduced wear on systems and appliances. Consider presenting a cost-sharing arrangement where you both contribute to improvements that have lasting benefits. 

For example, if you’re interested in installing a smart thermostat, you might offer to purchase the device if your landlord covers the professional installation. Document everything in writing, including any agreements about whether installed items will stay with the property when you move out. 

Considering Major Energy-Efficient Upgrades 

While larger upgrades typically require landlord involvement and investment, understanding these options can help you make a compelling case for improvements. The latest ENERGY STAR certified appliances can reduce energy consumption by 10-50% compared to older models. If your rental’s appliances are more than ten years old, bringing this to your landlord’s attention could lead to beneficial upgrades. 

HVAC systems represent another significant opportunity for improvement. Regular maintenance is essential, and you should always report any issues promptly to your landlord. If your unit is aging or inefficient, research newer models and their potential savings. The latest heat pumps, for instance, can reduce heating costs by up to 50% compared to electric resistance heating. 

Insulation and air sealing might seem like invisible improvements, but they’re among the most effective energy-saving upgrades. Poor insulation can waste up to 30% of heating and cooling energy. When discussing these improvements with your landlord, emphasize that proper insulation not only reduces energy costs but also prevents moisture problems and extends the life of the building. 

Researching Financial Incentives and Programs

Many renters don’t realize that there are many financial incentives for energy-efficient improvements, even in rental properties. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) maintains an up-to-date list of programs available in your area. These might include: 

  • Utility company rebates for LED lighting and smart thermostats 
  • State-level incentives for energy-efficient appliances 
  • Federal tax credits for certain energy improvements 
  • Local weatherization assistance programs for qualified renters 

Some companies also offer free energy audit programs or discounted rates for participating in demand response programs. These programs might pay you to reduce your energy use during peak demand periods. 

Measuring Success 

Tracking your energy-saving efforts also helps with understanding what works and what doesn’t in your specific situation. Start by establishing a baseline using your previous year’s energy bills, adjusted for weather variations. Many utility companies now provide online tools that help you track your consumption patterns and compare them to similar households. 

Keep a simple spreadsheet or use a mobile app to record your energy-saving actions and their impact. For example, if you install LED bulbs throughout your apartment, note the date and monitor the change in your electricity usage. This data can be valuable when discussing future improvements with your landlord or planning additional energy-saving investments. 

Consider tracking not just your energy consumption but also your comfort levels. Sometimes, simple changes like adding window films or using draft stoppers can improve comfort while reducing energy use, and it’s a win-win situation that might not be immediately apparent in your utility bills alone. 

Considering the Environmental Impact 

While saving money is often the primary motivation for reducing energy consumption, the environmental benefits are equally significant. The average American home generates about 7.5 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually. By implementing the strategies discussed in this article, you could reduce your carbon footprint by 20-30%.  

Let’s put this into perspective: replacing just five frequently used incandescent bulbs with LED alternatives can prevent about 900 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions annually, equivalent to the carbon sequestered by 10 young trees over ten years. When multiplied across millions of rental properties, these small changes can have a substantial environmental impact, which is a key concern for environmentally conscious Millennials or Gen Zers.  

Taking Action

As a renter, you have more power to influence your energy consumption than you might think. Start with the no-cost behavioral changes outlined here, then gradually implement low-cost improvements as your budget allows. Build a collaborative relationship with your landlord to tackle larger improvements that benefit both parties. 

Remember that energy efficiency is a journey, not a destination. The most important step is to begin. Every kilowatt-hour you save benefits both your wallet and the planet. As energy costs continue to rise, the actions you take today will become increasingly valuable over time. 

By taking control of your energy consumption, you’re not just reducing your monthly expenses, you’re also contributing to a more sustainable future while potentially inspiring other renters and property owners to follow suit. The power to make a difference is literally in your hands. 

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